How to Apply for Oxford MBA Scholarships for International Students 2026/2027

Types of Scholarships Available

Oxford Pershing Square Graduate Scholarship

The Oxford Pershing Square Graduate Scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships available at Oxford. It provides full funding for both the MBA program and a one-year Master’s degree (from a program of the student’s choosing). This scholarship is ideal for students who want to specialize in a particular field before undertaking the MBA.
This is best for those with a clear vision of how they will leverage business skills to make a significant impact in the world

Skoll Scholarship:

The Skoll Scholarship is specifically targeted at social entrepreneurs who are committed to using business to address social, environmental, or economic challenges. The scholarship is designed to support students with a proven track record in social entrepreneurship and those who have a strong desire to use the MBA platform to scale and grow their ventures.
This is best for entrepreneurs or individuals with a background in social business who wish to develop their leadership skills and scale their social impact.
Oxford MBA Scholarships for Women: Oxford aims to increase gender diversity in the business world, and the Oxford MBA Scholarships for Women are designed to specifically support women who are eager to pursue leadership roles in business. This scholarship is part of Oxford’s ongoing commitment to promoting gender equality in the workplace and beyond.
This is best for Women who want to break barriers in business leadership and need financial support to do so.

AfOx Scholarships:

The AfOx Scholarships are designed to support African students who want to pursue the MBA program at Oxford and who demonstrate exceptional leadership potential and a desire to return to Africa to make a positive impact. The scholarships are part of Oxford's broader initiative to support African students in higher education and contribute to leadership development in Africa.
This is best for African students who aim to use their MBA to make an impact in Africa, particularly in the fields of business, social development, or entrepreneurship.

How the Scholarship Process Works

Automatic vs. Competitive Awards

While some scholarships, such as the Oxford Pershing Square Graduate Scholarship, are automatically awarded once a candidate meets the eligibility requirements and receives an offer for the MBA program, others may require a separate, competitive application process.

Criteria for Awarding Scholarships

Oxford MBA scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and the ability to make an impact in the business world. In many cases, scholarships also take into account the candidate's professional background, entrepreneurial experience, and future goals.

Deadlines and Application Process

It is important to carefully review each scholarship's deadline and application instructions, as they may differ. For example, some scholarships may require a separate essay or personal statement, while others will automatically consider you based on your MBA application.

Eligibility and Requirements

Each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria that students must meet to be considered. Common eligibility requirements across most scholarships include:

Academic Qualifications:Applicants must have an outstanding academic record, typically with a first-class degree or equivalent from a recognized university.
Leadership Potential: Many scholarships, such as the Skoll Scholarship, require applicants to demonstrate a history of leadership or entrepreneurship. This could be through professional experience, running a business, or involvement in impactful projects or initiatives.
Professional Experience: While work experience is not always mandatory, the MBA program at Oxford generally expects applicants to have at least two years of professional experience. The more substantial and relevant your experience, the better your chances for securing both admission and funding.
English Language Proficiency: Non-native English speakers must provide evidence of their proficiency in the language, typically through a TOEFL or IELTS score.

How the Scholarship is Disbursed

Oxford MBA scholarships typically cover full tuition fees, although some provide partial funding. For those receiving full funding, the scholarship covers:

Tuition Fees: All or a portion of the tuition fees for the full MBA program.
Living Costs: Some scholarships, like the Skoll Scholarship, also provide a living stipend to help with accommodation, food, and other living expenses while studying in Oxford.

For partial scholarships, the amount provided will be deducted from the overall tuition fees, and the student is responsible for covering the remaining costs.

Important Considerations

Non-deferrable: Most of the Oxford MBA scholarships cannot be deferred to a later year. If you are selected for a scholarship, you must begin the MBA program in 2026.
Scholarship Renewal: In some cases, scholarships may require students to maintain a certain level of academic performance throughout their studies to retain funding.
Impact and Commitment: Oxford places a high value on commitment to making an impact in business and society. Many scholarships, particularly those like the Skoll Scholarship, require candidates to demonstrate their passion for using business as a tool for social good.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Oxford MBA Scholarships 2026

1. Choose Your MBA Program

Oxford offers the 1+1 MBA program, which combines a one-year Master's degree with the full-time MBA. Ensure you select a partnering Master's program that aligns with your career goals.

2. Apply to the Master's Program

Submit your application to the chosen Master's program by the respective deadline. Ensure all required documents, including academic transcripts and references, are included.

3. Apply to the MBA Program

After securing an offer for the Master's program, apply to the MBA program. This application is separate and requires its own set of documents, including a GMAT/GRE score and a personal statement.

4. Submit the Scholarship Application

For scholarships like the Oxford Pershing Square Graduate Scholarship, submit a separate scholarship application. This typically includes a scholarship essay and additional references.

5. Prepare for Interviews

Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews. Prepare by reviewing your application materials and being ready to discuss your motivations and career aspirations.

6. Await Decision

After the interview process, await the final decision on both your MBA admission and scholarship application. Successful candidates will receive offers detailing the scholarship benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the 1+1 MBA program at Oxford?

The 1+1 MBA program combines a one-year Master's degree with the full-time MBA, allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests before pursuing the MBA.

2. Are there scholarships available for international students?

Yes, Oxford offers several scholarships for international students, including the Oxford Pershing Square Graduate Scholarship, which covers both the Master's and MBA programs.

3. What are the eligibility criteria for the Oxford MBA scholarships?

Eligibility criteria vary by scholarship but generally include academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to addressing global challenges.

4. Is work experience required for the MBA program?

While work experience is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. Many successful applicants have several years of professional experience.

5. Can I apply for multiple scholarships?

Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships, but each scholarship may have its own application process and eligibility criteria.

Conclusion

The Oxford MBA Scholarships for International Students 2026 provide a fantastic opportunity for bright and ambitious individuals to gain world-class education while minimizing financial constraints.

Each scholarship is designed to cater to a unique set of students, ensuring that those with diverse backgrounds, from social entrepreneurs to women leaders and African change-makers, have the chance to benefit from Oxford’s world-renowned business education.